Wire Preparation

When stripping wire it is preferable for the insulation to be cut rather than torn apart. The cut should be straight, not at an angle, and all strands intact. See figure A.

Correctly stripped wires will produce a joint with proper insulation support which will ensure that the crimp system is not compromised. If the insulation is crimped in the conductor barrel it may melt under high current, resulting in the wire becoming loose in the terminal and ultimately leading to total crimp failure. Conversely, if the insulation is not sighted completely within the insulation claws, wires will be liable to break under vibration or any waterproof seals may fail.

Wires which are stripped to the right length show bare wire either side of the crimp joint. See figure B.